About Konark Sun Temple
The Konark Sun Temple is a 13th-century temple to Surya, the Sun god, at Konark on the Odisha coast, about 35 km from Puri. Designed as a colossal stone chariot for the Sun, it is one of India's greatest architectural masterpieces and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Though regular worship no longer takes place in the ruined temple, it remains a deeply revered place and a highlight of any visit to Odisha. European sailors once called it the Black Pagoda, using it as a landmark.
The temple was built around 1250 CE by King Narasimhadeva I of the Eastern Ganga dynasty. Legend links Konark with Samba, son of Lord Krishna, who is said to have been cured of leprosy here after worshipping the Sun. Over the centuries the main tower collapsed, and in the early 20th century the British filled the surviving hall with sand and sealed it to preserve it. The site is protected by the Archaeological Survey of India.
What survives is mainly the great Jagamohana (assembly hall) on a high platform carved with 24 giant stone wheels, which also work as sundials, and seven horses pulling the chariot. Every surface is covered with sculptures of deities, musicians, dancers, animals and daily life. Three Surya images face the directions of the sun's journey.
Konark Sun Temple timings
Usually open about 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM as an ASI monument. Times may vary; check locally before visiting.
Timings change on festivals, eclipses and special days. Please confirm locally before you travel.
How to reach Konark Sun Temple
By air
Biju Patnaik International Airport, Bhubaneswar, about 65 km away.
By train
Puri railway station is about 35 km away; Bhubaneswar is about 65 km away.
By road
Buses and taxis run regularly from Puri along the scenic Marine Drive and from Bhubaneswar.
Festivals at Konark Sun Temple
- Chandrabhaga Mela (Magha Saptami)Jan/Feb
- Konark Dance FestivalEarly Dec
- Konark International Sand Art FestivalDec
Visitor tips
- Dress code
- No strict dress code as it is a protected monument; modest clothing is recommended.
- Entry
- Open to all visitors with an ASI entry ticket; foreign nationals pay a higher fee. Regular worship is not conducted inside the ruined temple.
- Hire an approved guide to understand the sculptures and sundial wheels.
- Visit early morning to avoid heat and crowds.
- Stay for the evening sound and light show if it is running.
- Combine with Puri Jagannath Temple and Chandrabhaga Beach on the same trip.
Places to visit near Konark Sun Temple
- Chandrabhaga BeachBeach linked with the Sun festival, about 3 km away
- Konark ASI MuseumSculptures recovered from the temple, next to the site
- Ramachandi TempleGoddess temple at the Kushabhadra river mouth, about 7–8 km away
- Puri Jagannath TempleOne of the Char Dham, about 35 km away
- PipiliVillage famous for appliqué craft, about 45 km away
Frequently asked questions
What are the Konark Sun Temple timings?
It is usually open from about 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Check locally for current timings.
Is worship done at Konark Sun Temple?
Regular worship is not conducted in the ruined temple, which is an ASI-protected monument, though it remains a revered site.
Who built the Konark Sun Temple?
King Narasimhadeva I of the Eastern Ganga dynasty built it around 1250 CE.
How far is Konark from Puri?
Konark is about 35 km from Puri by road.
How many wheels does Konark Sun Temple have?
The chariot-shaped temple has 24 carved stone wheels, drawn by seven horses.
Is there a dress code at Konark Sun Temple?
No strict dress code as it is a protected monument; modest clothing is recommended.
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